Which type of refrigerator is most commonly used in recreational vehicles (RVs)?

The absorption refrigerator is the most commonly used type in recreational vehicles (RVs) primarily due to its efficient operation in various conditions and the environment of an RV. Unlike compression-driven units that rely on electricity and a compressor to cool, absorption refrigerators utilize a heat source (either electric or gas) to create a cooling effect. This makes them particularly suitable for RVs, as they can effectively function when the vehicle is not connected to a power supply, such as when parked in a remote location or using battery power.

An additional advantage of absorption refrigerators is their quiet operation and the absence of moving parts, which is beneficial in the confined spaces of an RV where noise can be a consideration. They are designed to work well on an angle, making them adaptable to the shifting positions of an RV while traveling.

Other types of refrigerators, such as compression-driven models, are less common in RV applications mainly due to their dependence on a continuous power source and the limitations posed by the vehicle's electrical system. Condenser and evaporative refrigerators are typically more suited to residential or commercial usage rather than the unique requirements of RVs. This combination of flexibility, efficiency, and adaptability to off-grid scenarios makes the absorption refrigerator the preferred choice for RV owners.